Dental Crown After Care Guide

• Take it easy for a few hours: The anaesthesia may leave your mouth numb after the dentist. A strange feeling, right? While it's tempting to poke around and examine the new permanent crown, resist the urge. Wait a few hours—you'll have time to show off your new grin.

• Be mindful of what you eat: For the first few hours, steer clear of hot or cold items. Your mouth might be more sensitive than usual. And let's avoid sticky or hard foods that might dislodge the crown before the cement has had a chance to set. For instance, if you have a temporary dental crown, avoid chewing gum during this time.

• Follow prescribed medication: Any medication or mouthwash that your dentist recommends should be taken according to the guidelines. Kindly contact your dentist's office with any questions you may have regarding it. No inquiry is too trivial for them; they are there to assist.

• Keep an eye out for discomfort or unusual sensations: While some soreness is common, you should see your dentist right away if you experience extreme pain, a sensitivity that persists for several days, or a bite that just doesn't seem right. Being safe is always preferable to being sorry.

• Adopt good oral hygiene practices: This goes without saying, but brushing twice a day and using dental floss once daily is the golden rule. Your dental permanent crown is no different from your original teeth - it needs your love and care, too. Don't forget to pay extra attention to the area where your gum meets your crown.

• Say 'No' to hard foods: While your crown is strong, it's not indestructible. Avoid nibbling hard or sticky foods with your crown whenever possible, especially if you have a temporary crown. That means those crunchy candies or gooey caramel chocolates need to wait a bit.

• Be consistent with dental check-ups: Regular visits to your dentist will ensure your crown stays in top-notch condition. Your dentist would be able to spot any potential problems early and nip them in the bud.

• Avoid utilising your teeth as tools: Your teeth are not represented to be can openers or package cutters, even those with crowns. Using teeth as tools can lead to chipped or broken crowns. So, let's save them for what they are meant for - chewing and smiling.

Aftercare, like any dental procedure, is essential for success. A well-maintained permanent dental crown can last for years. Always remember that prevention beats cure. Take these crucial steps:

1. Reconfirm your crown regularly: You can't always see what's going on in your mouth, so it's essential to run your tongue over your crown regularly. Is it smooth? Is it secure? Does anything feel off? Call your dentist regularly if you feel uneasy.

2. Use a special toothpaste: Your dentist may suggest a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth. Using this can help minimise discomfort and sensitivity around your new crown, ensuring that your smile remains as radiant as ever.

3. Invest in a night guard: Consider investing in a night guard. It's a simple way to protect your permanent dental crown (and your other teeth) from unnecessary wear and tear. Plus, you'll get bonus points for preventing jaw discomfort.

4. Be careful with your crown during sports: If you're a sports enthusiast, remember to take extra care. A high-impact game could damage your crown. A mouthguard is an excellent investment to protect your teeth and your crown during these activities.

5. Use a water flosser: Flossing around a crown can be tricky. To make it easier, consider using a water flosser. This handy tool can get into those hard-to-reach places, ensuring your crown and surrounding teeth stay plaque-free.

How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?

Dental crowns may last 8–10 years or longer with proper care. How long the crown lasts depends on its material, wear and tear, oral hygiene, and dental appointments.

In essence, the lifespan of your crown is largely in your hands. So, remember to stick to the advice given above, and you'll know that maintaining these dental restorations is not as hard as it seems.

Can I Whiten My Crown?

While it may seem logical to consider whitening your dental crown along with your natural tooth, it's important to understand that the material used for crowns is not responsive to whitening treatments. 

Dental crowns, bridges, veneers, and fillings are unaffected by whitening agents and will remain their original colour while the surrounding teeth lighten. Therefore, if you're considering teeth whitening, it's best to do so before getting your dental crown. 

Will My Crown Need Replacement?

While dental crowns are made to last and stand up to the rigours of chewing and speaking, they aren't invincible and may eventually need replacement. Over time, a crown can become loose or worn, or the tooth underneath may decay. 

A damaged crown can cause discomfort and sensitivity or even lead to more severe dental issues if left untreated. So, it's crucial to keep an eye on any changes and report them to your dentist right away. 

Will My Crown Fall Off?

Permanent dental crowns are typically cemented in place and should not fall off. However, it is possible for a crown to become loose or even come off if there is decay or damage to the underlying tooth structure. 

Keep the crown and make an emergency dentist appointment right away to ensure adequate care. This allows for quick problem resolution and crown reattachment.